Baker proposes water and sewage price increase

BAKER - Homeowners could be seeing higher utility bills in the near future as the city is considering increasing water and sewer fees that would raise an estimated $600,000 annually for the city.

Rates for residential water fees would jump from $9 to $15 per month and commercial fees would increase from $12 to $21. The usage rate per 1,000 gallons of water would be adjusted from $1.50 to $1.75.

Sewer fees would see an increase of only $2 as the monthly cost would be expected to increase from $14 to $16 a month.

Some citizens of Baker, especially those on limited or fixed incomes, oppose the price hike and say it is "just another hassle". Residents have also cited problems with meter reading and installation as another reason they are hesitant about the measure.

Mayor of Baker Harold Rideau said the increase in water and sewer fees will actually end up benefiting the community of Baker as it will help fill in areas of the general budget where funds are needed.

The Baker City Council will meet next Wednesday for a vote on the proposed water and sewage ordinance.